Peer Gynt Suites, Op. 46 & 55

Originally composed as incidental music for Henrik Ibsen's play Peer Gynt, these suites became some of Grieg's most popular orchestral works.

Suite No. 1, Op. 46

1. Morning Mood - A serene depiction of dawn breaking over the mountains
2. The Death of Åse - A mournful elegy for Peer's mother
3. Anitra's Dance - An exotic, seductive dance in 3/4 time
4. In the Hall of the Mountain King - A dramatic, building crescendo

Suite No. 2, Op. 55

1. Ingrid's Lament - A sorrowful melody
2. Arabian Dance - Oriental-inspired with chromatic harmonies
3. Peer Gynt's Homecoming - A stormy sea voyage
4. Solveig's Song - A tender, lyrical conclusion

These suites showcase Grieg's mastery of orchestration and his ability to create vivid musical imagery that perfectly captures the dramatic essence of Ibsen's play.